Bterflies and Break-Throughs
A LETTER FROM STEPHEN WILSON
I have been creating embroidered butterflies and using them throughout my work for over 20
years. Whether they are embroidered onto a quilt or shirt or simply added freestanding to a piece
of art, butterflies have become a signature element seen in my work, and I can truly say that I
have embroidered thousands of these beautiful creatures. I believe the butterfly's popularity and
allure are twofold: firstly, butterflies hold spiritual meaning, representing change, metamorphosis,
growth, and even rebirth in cultures around the world. These earth-bound creatures can transform
themselves, taking flight and bringing beauty into the world. Secondly, they prove to be one of
nature's most beautiful creatures, a kaleidoscope of colors and species that seem almost endless.
Butterflies can be seen decorating everything from ballgowns and home decor to garden flags or
t-shirts, and pretty much anything else imaginable.
My first embroidered butterflies were designed and digitized for Anita Goodesign years ago,
intended to get stitched onto garments and quilts alike. Since then, I have digitized nearly 50
different butterfly collections, large and small, both whimsical and realistic. Butterflies have always
been a blank canvas to me, filling their wings with beautiful designs, metamorphosing them into
magical creatures.
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